Word Origin & History

deposition c.1400, "dethronement, putting down from dignity or authority," from O.Fr. deposition (12c.), from L. depositionem, noun of action from deponere (see deposit). Meaning "giving of testimony under oath" is from late 15c. Meaning "action of depositing" is from 1590s. Properly, deposition belongs to deposit, but deposit and depose have become totally confused and English deposition partakes of senses belonging to both.

Example Sentences for deposition

In support of his deposition he produced his billet de garde, dated the 8th.

The officers of justice act, and send their deposition to the Court.

I always believed in the truth of his deposition before the judge.

For it is necessary to read their deposition as of public accusers.

"And qualified to administer an oath and take your deposition," said the minister.

There was a name wanting in your evidence—in your deposition.

I could follow their flight, and we all heard their deposition on a couch in a corner of the room.

Borso had before him the deposition of the page-boy and the report of the watch.

Joannes is then taken to his master for the Deposition proper.

The pure administration of justice dates from the deposition of Macclesfield.